The Australian agricultural industries as a whole make an important contribution to sustainability—environmental, economic and social improvements and managing biosecurity matters.
Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) invest up to $7 million per year supporting environmental sustainability as well as animal health, welfare & biosecurity to aid farmers in reducing emissions, water use and managing the land. It is important not only for the environment but also for our farmers and their animals that grow a premium product which is exported all over the world. MLA’s investments return productivity benefits for producers, health benefits for animals and ensure community expectations of the highest possible animal welfare standards are met. Best practice in regards to animal welfare, health and biosecurity are critical considerations at all stages of the livestock production chain. Each impacts on farm productivity and farmer’s social license to operate. As a result, MLA’s extensive portfolio of animal health, welfare & biosecurity research and development has been used to produce best practice guidelines for cattle, sheep and goat enterprises.
The Australian wool industry, through MLA and in collaboration with the Australian Government, invests up to $5 million annually in research and development to support growth and understanding of the importance of grazing and pasture management. The focus of grazing & pasture management R&D includes areas such as; plant breeding and pre-breeding technologies; pasture variety trials; new forages for production and resource management benefits; pasture management to improve forage quality; Incorporating new forages into management systems and lastly, grazing system design. This is one with the aim to increase production by 2.5% per hectare/year, without decline in sustainability indicators.
In Australia, animals are mostly grazed on large areas of semi-arid and arid rangelands. This method of production is unique to Australia and means that overseas figures and data on environmental impact are not applicable to our industry. Our unique production systems and commitment to continuous improvement have led to Australian producers being recognised around the world as leaders in producing some of the highest quality products, while also leading the way in environmentally sustainable farming practices, while keeping in mind the focus on animal health, welfare and biosecurity.
Australian farmers understand that protecting and improving the natural world is vital to the long-term sustainability of their business, while also reducing the impact of global warming and climate change.
Across the country, many livestock farmers are managing weeds, pests and feral animals; helping maintain biodiversity; and reducing the risk of biosecurity outbreaks. They’re also improving water management efficiency in their grazing systems by maintaining healthy soils with adequate nutrients, minimising runoff through vegetation management, and monitoring the frequency and intensity of grazing. In doing so, Australia’s farmers are balancing the needs of the grazing animal, the pasture, the environment and biosecurity risks.
As custodians of 61% of Australia’s landmass, farmers recognise their responsibility to the environment all inclusive. Every step of the way, from paddock to plate or fibre to fashion, they make it a priority to continuously improve environmental management, increase sustainability and manage and prevent biosecurity risk. We’re extremely proud of the high-quality produce they provide and we’re equally proud of the conscious and successful effort we put toward environmental, economic and social sustainability.
Target 100 is an initiative by Australian cattle and sheep farmers, processors and the broader agricultural industry to proactively deliver sustainable cattle and sheep farming by 2020. It outlines 100 research, development and extension initiatives funded through industry bodies to continually improve sustainability and the impact of farming on the Australian environment. Target 100 has a commitment to take positive action, both big and small, to continually improve the way farmers operate and improve sustainability throughout the Australian agricultural supply chain. Apart from harnessing the latest technology and science to reduce carbon footprints, it’s also about sharing good ideas, celebrating successes and providing a focal point for environmental, social and ethical farming action to ensure a sustainable food and produce source. Australian farmers are caretakers of the land and are leading the way globally and are committed to leaving it in better shape than when they found it.
To learn more about Target 100 initatives you can click here
Northlakes High School Archibull 2015 